Giggs, playing in his 999th competitive game, provided the match winner in United's 2-0 victory over Queens Park Rangers last Saturday.

And the 22-year-old Rafael, who opened the scoring at Loftus Road with a contender for goal of the season, believes Giggs' continual ability to bamboozle defenders, even at 39 years of age, is starting to wear thin.

"Ryan is an unbelievable player. Every game you see him, he works hard, scores goals and makes assists," Rafael told The Sun. "He is one of the top players that I have played with."

"He is such a good player it is getting boring."

But the young Brazilian admitted he would not have it any other way, believing he would not be the player he is today if it had not been for Giggs' almost parental guidance.

"He gives us experience, confidence and when you are feeling bad he comes and helps you, especially young players," Rafael said. "Sometimes young players find it tough going and he helps them to show how to do it.

"He knows it from playing for 22 years. He pulls the player aside and gives him advice.

"He spoke to me a lot when I was young."

And Giggs' advice is paying dividends for Rafael, the fullback becoming a permanent fixture in manager Alex Ferguson's side, a defensive player with an eye goal – both traits coming to the fore against QPR.

"It was a very good day, we are very happy. You can see when you get a clean sheet and then another one it builds your confidence," he said. "So that is what is happening. We are getting very consistent.

"This is my third goal and we are getting the points.

"I saw the ball coming towards me, I just hit straight through it and knew it was in the moment I hit it.

"You just get that feeling and I didn't want to blink in case I caused it to miss. I can't remember scoring as good a goal. I scored against Liverpool but it was not the same. I curled the ball then.

"I will watch my goal and everyone will say 'what a goal'. I am very happy."